As I get older I find Christmas less and less enjoyable.  Am I becoming a scrooge in my old age?  I am tired of the meaning of CHRISTmas being all about presents and spending money.  Even Thanksgiving is now being taken over by shopping.  Stores opening up at midnight for Black Friday.   The holidays need to be able spending time with family, strengthing bonds with those we only see a few times a year.  Not about sitting around looking at the ads and planning the best shopping strategy.  It just makes me sad.  I am tired of feeling like I need to buy a certain amount for everyone to make sure their CHRISTmas is a good one. 

This Thanksgiving I did not make a large dinner, or a small one for that matter.  Our family went and feed a Thanksgiving meal to those that would not have had one otherwise.  The planning in the weeks beforehand was a little hectic, but I felt so good doing it.  I probably spent more than if I just made dinner for my family, but it was so worth it.  I suggest it for anyone who feels like they want to give back in some way.

I am not sure what CHRISTmas will hold in the way of helping others, but I am looking forward to what comes our way. 

OK, my rant is over.  I truly hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are able to enjoy the rest of the holidays and remember the true meaning of them all.